VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

Quality 10

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

Diamond certified VIDEO PROFILE

Diamond certified company PROFILE

Jack Chan, Sales Manager

Amazing Stone, Inc. provides a wide variety of stone products, granite and quartz countertops, tiles, cabinetry, fixtures, and hardware at its San Leandro showroom. The company also offers installation services throughout the Greater Bay Area via its sister company, Amazing Construction & Design, Inc. (Lic. 881848), which has the ability to handle additions to floors, fireplaces, shower enclosures and more.

Sales Manager Jack Chan says Amazing Stone aims to make its customers feel knowledgeable and comfortable about the countertops and backsplashes they’re looking to purchase. “We encourage each customer to bring in cabinet doors, flooring tiles, and other existing elements from their home so we can put them right next to our products and make sure they deliver on their vision.”

Amazing Stone’s professionals have a minimum of eight years’ experience and can guide clients through their marble and granite projects from start to finish. The company’s specialists also offer simple care and maintenance techniques that, according to Mr. Chan, keep stone surfaces looking new for years.

DIAMOND CERTIFIED RESEARCHED ARTICLES ON Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone provided the countertop for this kitchen remodeling project.

Company Profile

Amazing Stone, Inc. provides a wide variety of stone products, granite and quartz countertops, tiles, cabinetry, fixtures, and hardware at its San Leandro showroom. The company also offers installation services throughout the Greater Bay Area via its sister company, Amazing Construction & Design, Inc. (Lic. 881848), which has the ability to handle additions to floors, fireplaces, shower enclosures and more.

Sales Manager Jack Chan says Amazing Stone aims to make its customers feel knowledgeable and comfortable about the countertops and backsplashes they’re looking to purchase. “We encourage each customer to bring in cabinet doors, flooring tiles, and other existing elements from their home so we can put them right next to our products and make sure they deliver on their vision.”

Amazing Stone’s professionals have a minimum of eight years’ experience and can guide clients through their marble and granite projects from start to finish. The company’s specialists also offer simple care and maintenance techniques that, according to Mr. Chan, keep stone surfaces looking new for years.

Company Philosophy

“We put our hearts into our work, and it shows in both our craftsmanship and customer service. We always try to put ourselves in our customers’ positions and find the best solutions for their particular projects. We believe every client should have a positive remodeling experience and benefit from work that’s done in a professional and timely manner. That’s the type of service we strive to offer with every job.”

Comparative Summary

Quality and customer satisfaction are top priorities at San Leandro-based Amazing Stone, Inc. The company strives to help clients find the perfect product to enhance their living spaces. “Our staff is extremely patient when working with clients,” says assistant manager Haley Wong. “They may need extra guidance in choosing granite that matches or complements their cabinets, floors and walls, and we’re here to help with that process.”

Mr. Wong says Amazing Stone wants homeowners to take an active role in the selection process. The company encourages clients to take sample pieces home to get a sense of how the different colors and patterns will look in familiar surroundings. “When they’ve made their choice, we have our installers pull up the pieces one by one in a lighted area of our showroom, so customers can pick the actual pieces that best match each other.”

When acquiring material for its inventory, Amazing Stone takes great care in choosing pieces that show uniform thickness, color consistency and shine. “When we purchase material from overseas, we make sure it comes from the same block, which is cut and marked with the same lot number,” explains Mr. Wong. “But even with the ID, the granite can change color from end to end, so we have customers come in and select their specific pieces. Sometimes, we can even mark where certain pieces go in a kitchen.”

Amazing Stone uses prefabricated material, which means the pieces are cut to a certain dimension with the edges already added. These pre-cut surfaces cost less than raw granite slabs without sacrificing quality, says Mr. Wong. The company carries a wide range of pre-cut widths and lengths with either a “full” or “ogee” bullnose edge to suit almost any design or style.

Amazing Stone is one of the few Northern California companies certified to use Dry-Treat sealer. This unique product is a topical sealant with micro-particles that penetrate deeply into porous surfaces, making a permanent bond within the pores and creating a protective barrier against stains and other damage. Amazing Stone provides a 15-year warranty for its products that feature Dry-Treat.

Industry Info

When choosing granite for your home, don’t let price be your only concern. “There are many granite fabricators out there, so you shouldn’t make a decision based solely on price,” says Haley Wong, assistant manager at Amazing Stone, Inc. “Make sure they have positive reviews and a referral list that’s available upon request. If possible, see examples of their work—if not in a home, at least at the shop—and look at the quality of the seams.”

It’s always important to check a company’s credentials. Make sure they’re licensed, insured and bonded. One concern that’s consistently heard throughout the industry is contractors that are hard to track down, especially after they’ve received a customer’s deposit or final payment. It helps when there’s a showroom that’s staffed by people who’ll be there to answer questions, either on the phone or in person. “It’s important to the industry as a whole for companies to stand behind their work,” says Mr. Wong.

If you’re in the market for cabinets, be sure you know exactly what you’re getting, because there’s a wide range of prices and materials—hardwood, plywood, presswood—as well as different standards for construction. Find someone who’ll explain all these options, help you choose the perfect one and do a professional installation job.

Countertops made of granite are becoming increasingly popular with savvy homeowners who want a beautiful surface that’s durable and easy to maintain. Some consumers might wonder why they see such a price variation when shopping for granite countertops. Here’s why:

Once sealed, a granite countertop—whether it’s more expensive or not—will perform how it’s supposed to perform. Prices are different among countertop choices because of patterns. The more intricate the pattern and colors, the more expensive. A moving pattern will cost more than Gothic gray, for example. Country of origin also plays a role in pricing. For example, granite from Brazil—with a lot of characteristic movement—is more expensive than stone that comes from China, where granite typically has a plain pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions

A: Yes, but we don’t go out to clients’ homes; they need to bring in a drawing. To help with this step, our website has a design layout form that can be downloaded and filled out.

Q: Should I be concerned about radon?

A: Radon is a naturally-occurring gas that can be found in materials that come from the earth, like marble and granite. We have a radon detector in our warehouse that constantly tests radon levels to make sure they’re below what’s considered dangerous. We can even test a specific piece of granite if a customer requests it.

Q: How long will the job take?

A: It depends on the size of the job. Most jobs only take one day—including tear-out and installation—because we do it all onsite. However, there are occasions when a bigger job may take two days or more.

Q: What about demolition?

A: Demolition is optional. Customers can either do it themselves, ask their contractor to do it, or contract us to do it. If they choose us, we’ll tear out the old material and dispose of it. Including demolition, most jobs still only take one day.

Q: What kind of cabinets do you recommend?

A: We’re proud to be an authorized dealer of Armstrong cabinetry. Armstrong offers a great product line to fit almost any design or budget. We have several different wood styles, and each one has a variety of colors and doors to choose from.

Q: What’s the proper way to maintain granite countertops?

A: Once a granite countertop is sealed with Dry-Treat, the maintenance is very easy. We just ask people to wipe it down with a neutral cleaner and a towel. You don’t have to use an expensive cleaner or do anything special to it, but we do recommend not putting any hot objects directly on the countertop, because that could possibly emulsify the sealant or leave a dull mark. We give each customer an instruction sheet at the end of the job, and there’s always someone at the office to answer questions.

SELECTED PHOTOS FROM Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone provided the countertop for this kitchen remodeling project.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone handles finishing details like fixtures and hardware.

The company installs stone products, cabinetry and more.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Amazing Stone, Inc.

Shares

DIAMOND CERTIFIED EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR ADVICE & TIPS FROM Jack Chan

Expert CONTRIBUTOR PROFILE

Jack Chan has been selling stone countertops for 14 years and is sales manager at Amazing Stone, Inc., a Diamond Certified company since 2007. He can be reached at (510) 200-0445 or by email.

Jack Chan: The Family Stone

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SAN LEANDRO — When Jack Chan’s parents started a stone product installation business, he could see it was a good professional opportunity. However, it wasn’t until after he’d explored some other options that he decided to pursue it as a full-time career. “My parents started Amazing Stone, Inc. when I was 18 years old,” he remembers. “Soon after, I went to college and eventually graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering. However, running a business seemed more fun than going into engineering; as a people-person, I preferred the idea of interacting with customers to that of spending my days drawing at a desk. So, I went to work for my parents, and 13 years later, I’m the sales manager here.”

Originally from Hong Kong, Jack came to the Bay Area at age 14 and today resides in San Ramon with his wife, Katie. Outside of work, he says his favorite activity is relaxing. “I work six days a week, so I’m kind of a couch potato on Sundays,” he laughs. “A couple of my favorite pastimes are cooking and watching movies.” Jack says he also enjoys traveling when the opportunity arises. “My wife and I usually do a big trip every couple of years. So far, we’ve been to Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Hong Kong.”

In his life and career, Jack espouses the importance of being passionate. “I think in order to truly succeed at something, whether in life or in business, you have to set your heart on it and have a passion for it,” he affirms. “For me, there’s a lot of fulfillment to be had from helping people and solving difficult problems. The challenges we face on a daily basis keep things interesting.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Jack says he’d take an extended vacation. “Right now, I only travel every couple of years, but if I were to retire and could afford it, I would plan a trip around the world.”

Expert articles

Understanding Your Countertop Options

By Jack Chan of Amazing Stone, Inc.

SAN LEANDRO — When it comes to stone countertops, homeowners have three main options to choose from: granite, quartz and marble. There are other, less common materials available (including some high-end options), but nine times out of 10, homeowners choose one of these three. The question is, which option is right for you? To help you decide, let’s look at some key attributes of each:

Granite

Granite is a natural stone. It’s very tough—one of the toughest natural materials on the planet. However, like any natural stone, granite is porous, so it needs to be sealed to prevent stains. Fortunately, there are professionally applied sealers available that last up to 25 years, so you don’t have to reseal often.

Since it’s a natural product, granite contains natural colors and patterns. The only potential downside of this is you can’t customize the look of your countertops—you’re limited to what nature provides.

Quartz

Quartz is a man-made material that’s completely customizable in terms of colors and patterns. Additionally, since it’s non-porous, no additional sealant is necessary. However, prompt cleaning and proactive care are still important with quartz countertops. For example, if you leave a red wine spill on your counter overnight, you’ll likely end up with a stain. Basically, it’s tough but not “bulletproof,” so you can’t be careless.

Marble

Like granite, marble is a natural material, but unlike granite, it’s very soft and can be easily stained or etched by acidic liquids and other elements. For this reason, sealing (as well as recurrent resealing) is imperative with marble countertops. Even with sealing, marble countertops are still vulnerable to etching, so you need to consider the level of activity that takes place in your kitchen. If you regularly cook with acidic substances, marble probably isn’t a great choice.

It’s also important to note that marble changes over time. Think of an older building with a marble façade—the marble has yellowed a bit, is no longer shiny and has developed a patina. A marble countertop will behave the same way. So, if you’re thinking of choosing marble, make sure you’re the kind of person who embraces natural change, because your countertops won’t stay the same.

How to Clean Stone Countertops

by Jack Chan, a Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

SAN LEANDRO — If you have a natural stone countertop in your home, you need to know the proper way to clean it. Since natural stone surfaces can be damaged by acidic substances like wine, vinegar and oil, be sure to promptly clean these types of spills to prevent edging or staining. In general, wiping your counter with warm water and soap will suffice, but sometimes stubborn spots require more intensive means. In such cases, avoid using an acidic cleaner or abrasive sponge, as these can damage your counter’s stone surface. Instead, use a fine razor blade to gently scrape off the buildup.

While proper cleaning procedure is crucial, don’t neglect the equally important step of having your stone countertops routinely resealed. In addition to being sealed upon installation, a natural stone countertop should be resealed every six to nine months afterward. Keep in mind that some companies offer specialty sealants that can last up to 25 years. Whether you choose to do it yourself or via a professional, remember that sealing is critical for preserving your counter’s stone surface.

Expert video tip

Video: How to Clean Stone Countertops

with Jack Chan of Amazing Stone, Inc.

Complete Video Transcription:

SAN LEANDRO — Host, Sarah Rutan: If you have stone countertops in your home, it’s important to know the correct procedures for cleaning and maintaining them. Today we’re in San Leandro with Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Jack Chan of Amazing Stone to learn more.

Diamond Certified Expert Contributor, Jack Chan: Today we want to talk about how to clean your countertop. Most countertops go into kitchens or bathrooms which can be messy from time to time. The way to clean it is simple. Using warm water with soap, and go with a cloth or a paper towel, should go for a long way. If you happen to have buildup, do not use anything acidic or abrasive. Use a razor blade to scrape off the buildup, then use warm water and soap to clean the rest of it.

If you drop wine, vinegar, or oil on your counter, try to clean it as soon as you can before it starts edging or staining your countertops. If you have natural countertops such as granite, marble, or limestone, the best scenario would be to seal it before you start using it, when it is brand new, and a typical sealant will last for six to nine months before you have to reseal it, or you can have it professionally sealed. Some companies offer sealant that will last up to 25 years.

Video: 3 Popular Countertop Materials

With Jack Chan of Amazing Stone, Inc.

Complete Video Transcription:

SAN LEANDRO — Host, Sarah Rutan: If you’re in the market for new stone countertops, you’ll want to educate yourself about the different materials available. Today we’re in San Leandro with Diamond Certified Expert Contributor Jack Chan of Amazing Stone to learn about three popular choices.

Diamond Certified Expert Contributor, Jack Chan: Many customers ask us about the difference of different stone products. For example, this is granite. When there’s a granite, they’re durable, stain-resistant and scratch-resistant, but then you do have to put sealant on it to protect it from color staining as well. As because granite is a volcano rock, because of the magma and all the collusion between different elements, this is a rather busy material.

This is marble. As you can see this is much calmer compared to granite, and it is also very elegant and traditional to add into your home. But the drawback is that marble is a softer material. It is more vulnerable to scratch and staining as far as etching.

This is a quartz product. So quartz, unlike granite and marble, quartz is not a natural stone – is a man-made product. Because off that there is a name brand involved and there is also different manufacturer offering different warranty program. Now as a quartz are – there are scratch-resistant and stain-resistant as if granite, and they do not require sealant. It is very important to choose the right material that fits your needs and your lifestyle.

Company Suggested Links

Diamond Certified RATINGS ON Amazing Stone, Inc.

Rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise

Amazing Stone, Inc.

324 SURVEYS

RATING

13 CONSECUTIVE YEARS SINCEAugust 2007CERT1133

DIAMOND CERTIFIED PERFORMANCE GUARANTEED

Diamond certified ratings dashboard

CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
i

Customer LOYALTY
i

Helpful Expertise
i

Each surveyed customer was asked, “If you needed any helpful expertise, did this company provide that expertise?” To calculate this score, total “Yes” responses were divided by total responses (excluding those that stated they hadn’t needed any expertise).

Company Credentials
i

Workers Compensation

Liability Insurance

License Verification

Business Practices

Current Complaint File

Legal & Finance

Phone SURVEY RESPONSES FROM 324 VERIFIED CUSTOMERS
i

Amazing Stone, Inc.:
Average 9.2 out of 10 based on 324 unique customer surveys of customer satisfaction.

Annmarie M.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

1
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

I would say that the owners are very easy to work with and that I had a pleasant experience with them. I'm looking forward to having future projects done by them. I'd highly recommend them.

I liked the overall experience with Jack and his wife.

Lupe P.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

2
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They're well priced, skilled, and they work well with end users and trade partners.

They're very helpful and quick to respond to requests on quotes.

Dick G.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

3
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They are good and everything was fine.

The work was done and it was done right.

Kamal B.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

4
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

We have used them twice, and we've been very satisfied. They did a very good job.

They were very friendly and knowledgeable.

Carol B.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

5
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

I have used them twice, and I have always found them very informative, and they answered all of the questions I had. They were very responsive, excellent customer service, and they stick to their commitments.

I would say, their personal attention stands out, and also there was never any pressure.

Courtney B.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

6
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They did a really good job, and we always tell people about their expertise when doing the edges. You cannot see the seams, and we really liked that. We have used them several times.

They did high quality work, and they were very knowledgeable.

Lana C.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

7
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They did a very professional job, and I would definitely recommend them. We were very happy with the job.

I'd say they were professional and informative.

Brandon D.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

8
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

It was a good product for a good price.

The price stood out for me.

Stan G.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

9
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They were very professional.

I would say their customer service stood out for me.

Eileen H.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

10
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They were the one vendor that didn't screw anything up. They did a great job, and we have referred them to many people. They offered a good price, and the stone is absolutely beautiful.

They were very quick, and there was a very quick turnaround.

Pam H.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

11
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They did excellent work, there were absolutely no seams. I bought the granite somewhere else, and they installed it. They were very helpful, telling me what to look for, and they answered all of my questions.

They were very nice and very friendly.

Bibi L.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

12
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

I would highly recommend them. What I liked, was the fact that they showed me my options and showed me what a great company they were before they knew I would be on board as their client.

I really appreciated all of the information and recommendations we received from them regarding type and which direction to go.

Marie L.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

13
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They did great work, and we were very satisfied.

Nothing in particular stands out.

Mike M.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

14
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They were on time, and they did good work.

I don't really know, but we have used them several times.

Patricia R.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

15
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They had a good product, they answered all of my questions, and they gave good advice. The installation came out perfect.

I would say the initial contact we had stood out.

Bruce T.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

16
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

We have used them several times now, and they are the best around. They are very easy to work with, and they did a great job.

I can't think of any one thing.

Maria Z.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

17
of
324

Quality 10

1010

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

It was good quality, and they were on time and quick. They also cleaned up well and everything was very fine.

Nothing really stands out.

Arvind A.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

18
of
324

Quality 9

910

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

We were very satisfied.

They were very helpful and courteous.

Kurt K.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

19
of
324

Quality 9

910

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

They had a great selection, and they were very helpful and pointed us in the right direction.

Not anything in particular, they did their job and they did it well.

Katherine S.

VERIFIED Amazing Stone, Inc. CUSTOMER

20
of
324

Quality 9

910

Loyalty
Yes

CRITIQUE

The prices were good, they had everything ready to go, and they were accurate and helpful.

I would say they had the best price and the best quality, and they were very helpful.